Success stories are told by dozens of students who used a biofeedback program (EmWave), felt better, and raised their test scores. Many were assisted in preparing for COMPASS and Regents exams.

Depression, feeling ‘stuck’

Going to counseling helps students to make changes that create a major, positive difference in how they feel about themselves and their lives.

Relationship difficulties

An objective third party can help students get a clearer picture and make better decisions. Significant change is experienced by students who get help.

Other issues

Some students experience grief at the loss of a significant person or because of their parents’ divorce. Others don’t understand why they can’t make themselves study. Some students are confused about sexuality, are fearful or angry, or simply feel something is wrong and they don’t know what to do.

It's simple.

D-stress with Doc...Feel better.

Grades improve when stress is reduced
Relationships improve, conflict is reduced
Students' priorities come first--this respectful process provides problem-solving assistance, doesn't "give advice"
Convenient hours are offered (including 2 evenings, and others by appointment)
Confidentiality/privacy is a priority
Credit hours may be earned, not dropped
Students taking anti-depressants, anti-anxiety or other meds get the counseling they need for optimal functioning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make an appointment?
Will it be on my school record?
Does it cost anything?
Is it private?
Who goes to counseling?
Can I get a prescription?
Who is the counselor?

Free and confidential

* Not on your school records

* Information is shared with no one unless you request it and sign a release of info form (only exception: if you are at risk of harming yourself or someone else)

How do I make an appointment?

Several ways: The easiest and quickest way is to click on "make an appointment" on this Counseling and Wellness page for Oconee campus. You can see all available appointments and choose the one that's best for you. Or, send an email to mhawley@gsc.edu. Or, stop by Room 108 Administration (from the lobby, second door on the right) anytime; if the door is open, you're welcome to have a drop-in appointment.

Will it be on my school record?

Your academic record will contain nothing about visits to the Personal Counseling Office. Brief session notes are kept in a process that is consistent with HIPAA regulations (national standards to protect the privacy of personal health information).

Does it cost anything?

Counseling is free, a service provided by GSC. (A counselor is on both campuses; on the Gainesville campus, you can see Dr. Joy Evans)

Is it private?

Personal counseling is private — the counselor doesn’t tell professors, staff members, administrators, parents, friends, or anyone else about seeing you or about what you say. Sessions are timed so students can come and go with minimal interaction.

Who goes to counseling?

Anyone who is having difficulties academically or personally can benefit from counseling. Students get help with a wide variety of problems and issues, including anxiety; depression; conflicts with roommates, boyfriends/girlfriends, parents, professors, or others; concern about grades or finances, body image or addictive/compulsive behaviors; at-risk behaviors; and many other areas. It doesn’t have to be “that bad” to go to counseling — students often say they wish they hadn’t waited so long to go.

Can I get a prescription?

Physicians and psychiatrists write prescriptions in Georgia. The counselor can suggest referrals and, with your permission, collaborate with others so you get the help you need.

Who is the counselor?

‘Doc” Hawley has been the coordinator of Personal Counseling at GSC-O since August 2004. She is licensed by the state. Her counseling philosophy stresses the importance of an individual’s unique strengths and his/her right to self-determination. In addition, Dr. Hawley has a small evening and weekend private practice for non-GSC students.